In April 2025, we took a bold step forward by applying to the First International Bank & Trust Live First Community Giving Campaign—an initiative that awards grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 to nonprofits across its service areas facebook.com+1instagram.com+1bankbeat.biz+8fibt.com+8facebook.com+8.
The campaign is structured in tiers:
- Social Media Stars: Three grants of $1,000, awarded based on “likes” on Facebook.
- Category Winners: Up to 11 grants of $2,000 each, one per giving category.
- Rising Star Awards: Up to six $3,000 grants, highlighting new nonprofits or fresh programming.
- And finally, the Grand Prize: a single $20,000 award fibt.com+1bankbeat.biz+1.
For us, this competition is more than just a contest—it’s a chance to secure early operational dollars that could kickstart The Kringle Cause’s first-year initiatives:
- Launching our E.L.F. work experience program, empowering young adults with disabilities.
- Purchasing essential materials and tools to build handcrafted toys and gifts.
- Fundraising for the North Pole-inspired workshop concept.
- And supporting parents during tough times with emotional care and community.
We submitted our application before the April 16 deadline and now eagerly await the results. Whether we become one of the Social Media Stars, category winners, or earn the grand prize, any funding would go directly toward building our mission—long before we ring any bells or wrap a single gift.
This isn’t just about money—it’s a community vote of confidence. It’s a chance for our supporters to rally online, hit “like,” and show that they believe in year-round kindness, joy, and inclusion.
Thank you to everyone who’s already shared, liked, or lent their support. If you haven’t yet—head to First International Bank & Trust’s page and join the #LiveFirst movement. With your help, we just may win big before summer arrives.
